new printer, printhead issues

[SoCraftyGrl]

just got a new printer, installed it did one print test now the printhead error indicator is flashing on my printer. Help!!!

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @SoCraftyGrl 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

It sounds like your new HP printer is flashing a printhead error right after setup—let’s get that sorted with a few precise checks.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help resolve the flashing printhead error:

 

1. Power Cycle the Printer

• Turn off the printer and unplug the power cord from both the printer and the wall.
• Wait 60 seconds.
• Plug it back in and turn it on. This clears temporary hardware faults.

 

2. Check Ink Cartridge Installation

• Open the cartridge access door.
• Remove each cartridge and inspect for protective tape—sometimes it’s left on the nozzles or contacts.
• Gently remove any tape without touching the copper contacts or ink nozzles.
• Reinsert the cartridges firmly until they click into place.

3. Clean the Printhead (If Accessible)

• If your printer has a removable printhead (like some HP Smart Tank or OfficeJet models), gently remove it and clean the electrical contacts with a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Let it dry completely before reinserting.

 

4. Use the HP App for Guided Troubleshooting

• Open the HP App on your computer or mobile device.
• Go to your printer > Printer Settings > Diagnose & Fix.
• This tool can detect and resolve printhead-related issues automatically.

 

5. Reset the Printer

• If the error persists, perform a semi-full reset:
  • With the printer on, disconnect the power cord.
  • Hold the power button for 15 seconds.
  • Reconnect the power and turn it on.

If the issue continues after these steps, let me know your printer model and any specific light patterns or messages—it’ll help narrow down the next move.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[SoCraftyGrl]

Thank you so very much for getting back with me.  I did try all these things you mentioned multiple times.  My last resort was to return it ( which i just did yesterday). I want to try a HP printer again but nervous id have the same kind of issue. Thank you again for your reply and all your help. God bless!!

[Hawks_Eye]

You're most welcome—and thank you for your kind words. 

I completely understand your hesitation. You did everything right, and I truly admire your persistence.

If you ever decide to try another HP printer, I’d be more than happy to help you choose one that’s reliable, easy to maintain, and well-suited to your needs—whether it’s for high-volume student printing, scanning, or wireless convenience. 

Wishing you and your students all the best!

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye

[Jezza6]

Hp officejet 5230

Error message on display is " cartridges are not communicating correctly with the printer" 

I have tried the steps suggested by AI after search for error message

Still same error message

Can.you suggest any other steps I can take? 

[Hawks_Eye]

Hi @Jezza6 

Welcome to the HP Support Community! We're here to help you get back up and running.

Here are precise steps you can follow to address the “cartridges are not communicating correctly with the printer” error on your HP OfficeJet 5230:

Step 1: Power Reset

• With the printer powered on, disconnect the power cord from the rear of the printer.
• Unplug the cord from the wall outlet.
• Wait at least 60 seconds.
• Plug the cord back into the wall outlet and reconnect it to the printer.
• Turn the printer back on.

 

Step 2: Remove and Inspect Cartridges

• Open the cartridge access door and wait until the carriage stops moving.
• Remove both cartridges.
• Check for protective tape on the copper-colored contacts or nozzles. If present, remove it carefully.
• Inspect the cartridges for damage or ink buildup. Do not touch the copper contacts or ink nozzles.

 

Step 3: Clean Cartridge Contacts

• Use a lint-free cloth slightly dampened with distilled water.
• Gently wipe the copper-colored contacts on the cartridges.
• Also clean the contacts inside the printer carriage.
• Allow both to dry completely before reinserting.

 

Step 4: Reinstall Cartridges

• Insert the cartridges back into their slots (black on the right, tri-color on the left).
• Ensure they click firmly into place.
• Close the access door.

 

Step 5: Update Printer Firmware

• On your Windows PC, open the HP App.
• Check for available updates for the printer firmware and install them.
• Restart the printer after the update.

 

Step 6: Run Diagnostic Tool

• In the HP App, use the Diagnose & Fix option.
• Follow the on-screen instructions to detect and resolve communication issues.

 

Step 7: Test Print

• Print a test page from the HP App.
• Confirm if the error message clears and printing resumes.

If the issue persists after these steps, it may indicate a hardware-level problem with the cartridges or the printhead. Since you mentioned you’ll handle warranty or service separately, these steps cover all the advanced troubleshooting you can perform yourself.

If my response helped, please mark it as an Accepted Solution! ✅ It helps others and spreads support. 💙 Also, tapping "Yes" on "Was this reply helpful?" makes a big difference! Thanks! 😊

Take care, and have an amazing day!

Regards, 

Hawks_Eye